Solar based energy conversion apparatus

ABSTRACT

A solar energy conversion apparatus including a solar collection apparatus configured for tracking the sun, a first loop array for channeling a first heat transfer fluid to and from a fluid reservoir operating as a heat sink, a second loop array for channeling a second heat transfer fluid to and from the fluid reservoir for interfacing via a heat exchanger therewith, a third loop array for channeling a third heat transfer fluid to and from the fluid reservoir for interfacing via a heat exchanger therewith.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This nonprovisional patent application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/259,552 entitled “SOLAR BASED ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM” to Heinsohn et al. filed on Nov. 9, 2009, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

This disclosure is related to the field of energy conversion systems using one or more solar collection apparatuses.

BACKGROUND

Solar energy is responsible for sustaining life as we know it on planet Earth. Attempts to harness solar energy and convert such energy to electricity or other valuable forms of energy have been around for a number of years. One technology available for directly converting solar energy into electric energy is photovoltaics. Although photovoltaic technology is available, reliance on photovoltaic energy alone to date has met with mixed success and less than desirable levels of efficiency.

Another manner of converting solar energy to other forms of energy is by concentrating solar energy using concentrating solar power (CSP) systems. By concentrating solar power at a specific point, line, or area, energy in the form of heat may be generated and put to use for doing other things such as, for example, heating water to provide hot water and heating water to generate steam for other uses.

A pair of problems with establishing widespread use of solar energy conversion apparatuses including CSP systems at an individual household level includes the high up-front cost of materials and inconvenience related to the availability of sunlight including no particularly reliable way to store energy for later use. Although larger scale plants have been designed and built for specific applications (including, for example, the PS20 solar power tower completed on April 2009 in Seville, Spain), the use of CSP systems at the individual household level is not catching on throughout the world. One particular problem is that the costs and inconveniences of retrofitting a house already built with a solar energy conversion system is too much of an obstacle for general widespread adoption. Moreover, the lack of confidence in a long-term and significant monetary benefit further heightens this obstacle.

What is needed therefore is a system available to the average homeowner that does not present the same obstacles or the same degree of obstacles associated with CSP systems currently available on the market for individual homeowners and/or small businesses.

SUMMARY

The above and other needs are met by an energy conversion apparatus including a first reservoir for holding a first heat transfer fluid wherein the fluid located in the first reservoir defines a thermal mass; a parabolic solar collection apparatus including an absorber pipe; a first loop array including first piping configured for circulating a first heat transfer fluid in a cyclical manner from the first reservoir through the absorber pipe and back to the first reservoir; a second loop array including second piping, the second piping including a first heat exchange portion located within the first reservoir wherein the first heat transfer fluid is substantially prevented from directly contacting fluid in the second loop array, the second loop array configured for circulating a second heat transfer fluid from the first heat exchange portion to a first use application and back to the first heat exchange portion; a third loop array including third piping, the third piping including a second heat exchange portion located within the first reservoir wherein the first heat transfer fluid is substantially prevented from directly contacting fluid in the third loop array, the third loop array configured for circulating water from the second heat exchange portion to a second use application and, to the extent water is not removed from the third loop array, back to the second heat exchange portion, wherein the energy conversion system is configured for transferring heat energy from the parabolic solar collection apparatus to the first heat transfer fluid, transferring heat energy from the first heat transfer fluid through the first heat exchange portion to the second heat transfer fluid in the second loop array, and transferring heat energy from the first heat transfer fluid through the second heat exchange portion to the water in the third loop array. In certain preferred embodiments, the first reservoir is configured to hold between about 250 gallons to about 1000 gallons of the first heat transfer fluid.

In one particular embodiment, the first use application further includes an air treatment apparatus configured for receiving heat energy from the second heat transfer fluid as the second heat transfer fluid circulates through the second loop array. In another embodiment, the first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid comprise substantially the same fluid composition. Preferably, such fluid composition includes water, ethylene glycol, and/or propylene glycol. In another embodiment, the energy conversion apparatus includes a solar control system for controlling the mechanical behavior of the parabolic solar collection apparatus including the positioning of the solar collection apparatus relative to the sun, the first control system comprising a motor and a solar system controller, wherein the motor is actuated by one or more actuation commands from the solar system controller. Preferably, the energy conversion apparatus includes a first pump for pumping the first heat transfer fluid through the first loop array; and a second pump for pumping the second heat transfer fluid through the second loop array.

In certain embodiments, the third loop array is in selective fluid communication with fluid from an external water source for supplying make up water to the third loop array. In one embodiment the first heat transfer fluid is maintained at a temperature of at least about 120° F. and no more than about 200° F. In a related embodiment, the first heat transfer fluid is maintained at a temperature of at least about 180° F. and no more than about 200° F. In yet another embodiment, the first reservoir is located at least about six feet below ground level to minimize heat energy loss.

In certain embodiments, the energy conversion system described above includes a parabolic solar collection apparatus such as a parabolic trough solar collection apparatus or a parabolic dish solar collection apparatus.

In certain embodiments, the first reservoir further includes a concrete layer substantially surrounding the thermal mass, the concrete layer having an average thickness ranging from about two inches to about six inches; and a polymeric layer substantially surrounding the concrete layer, the polymeric layer having an average thickness ranging from about two inches to about six inches.

Certain embodiments described herein include a temperature sensor attached adjacent the first reservoir wherein the solar control system monitors and controls the temperature of the thermal mass within the first reservoir based at least in part on one or more commands from the solar system controller to the first pump.

Certain embodiments described herein include a first loop control system comprising a physical condition sensor attached adjacent the first loop array and a first loop controller in communication with the physical condition sensor and the first pump wherein the first loop control system is configured for transmission of one or more action commands from the first loop controller to the first pump in response to the detection of one or more pre-defined triggering conditions sensed by the physical condition sensor, the second control system for controlling the temperature of the thermal mass within the first reservoir.

Certain embodiments described herein include a temperature control valve along the third loop array for selectively mixing water cycling through the third loop array and water introduced from the external water source.

In certain embodiments, the first loop control system further includes command logic for directing a backup heating system to engage if the temperature of the thermal mass falls below a predefined temperature lower limit.

Certain embodiments described herein include a solar control system for controlling the mechanical behavior of the parabolic solar collection apparatus including the positioning of the solar collection apparatus relative to the sun, the first control system comprising a motor and a computer processor, wherein the motor is actuated by one or more actuation commands from the computer processor. Some of these embodiments further include a second loop control system for controlling the physical conditions associated with the first use application by controlling the flow of the second heat transfer fluid through the second loop array, the second loop control system comprising a second loop controller, the second pump, and a thermostat wherein the second loop control system is configured for transmission of one or more action commands from the second loop controller to the second pump in response to the detection of one or more pre-defined triggering conditions sensed by the thermostat. In some of these embodiments, the third loop array is in selective fluid communication with fluid from an external water source for supplying make up water to the third loop array and wherein the third loop array further includes a temperature control valve for selectively mixing water cycling through the third loop array and water introduced from the external water source.

An important advantage of the apparatus described herein is the ease and low cost in which such system can be retrofitted to houses and buildings that already have traditional piping and heat exchange equipment.

Another advantage of the apparatus described herein is the simultaneous virtual elimination of heating costs for heating a hot water heater as well as the significant drop in costs associated with heating and/or cooling air for use in an associated building or home.

Yet another advantage is that the vast majority of the system can be buried and out of sight while, at the same time, remain accessible for repair, adding or removing heat transfer fluid, or other maintenance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features, aspects, and advantages of the present disclosure will become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, appended claims, and accompanying figures, wherein elements are not to scale so as to more clearly show the details, wherein like reference numbers indicate like elements throughout the several views, and wherein:

FIG. 1 shows a somewhat schematic view of an embodiment of an energy conversion system and some notes regarding the energy conversion system;

FIG. 2 shows a somewhat schematic view of an embodiment of an energy conversion system;

FIG. 3 shows some notes regarding the energy conversion system shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 shows a somewhat schematic view of an energy conversion system;

FIG. 5 shows a somewhat schematic view looking down at the top of an energy conversion module;

FIG. 6 shows a somewhat schematic view of an energy conversion system including multiple energy conversion modules placed in series;

FIG. 7 shows a somewhat schematic view of an energy conversion system including an additional alternative view of a solar collection apparatus;

FIG. 8 shows a somewhat schematic view of an energy conversion system;

FIG. 9A shows a somewhat schematic view of a control diagram with respect to an HVAC pump controller.

FIG. 9B shows a somewhat schematic view of a control diagram for a solar system pump controller.

FIG. 10 shows a somewhat schematic view of an energy conversion system including an in-ground reservoir.

FIG. 11 shows a somewhat schematic overhead view of the in-ground reservoir of FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 shows a somewhat schematic side view of the in-ground reservoir of FIG. 10 viewed from line “A-A” in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 shows a somewhat schematic first end view of the in-ground reservoir of FIG. 10 viewed from line “B-B” in FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 shows a somewhat schematic second end view of the in-ground reservoir of FIG. 10 viewed from line “C-C” in FIG. 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various terms used herein are intended to have particular meanings Some of these terms are defined below for the purpose of clarity. The definitions given below are meant to cover all forms of the words being defined (e.g., singular, plural, present tense, past tense). If the definition of any term below diverges from the commonly understood and/or dictionary definition of such term, the definitions below control.

Air Treatment Apparatus: Any apparatus capable of altering the physical characteristics of air based on thermal energy input including, without limitation, an air conditioner, a heat pump, or a heater. Computer processor: any device capable of processing data including, for example, a programmable logic controller (PLC). Fluid communication: the ability of fluid to flow into or out of a structure. If a first object is in fluid communication with a second object, a common fluid is in direct contact with both the first object and the second object and/or a structure is configured so that fluid may flow from the first object to the second object. Loop Array: An assortment of components arranged together to form a conduit or physical cycle through which a heat transfer fluid can be selectively forced to flow.

FIG. 1 shows a somewhat schematic view of an embodiment of an energy conversion system 10 for a single residential building and some notes regarding the energy conversion system. FIG. 2 shows a somewhat schematic view of an embodiment of an energy conversion system 14 for a multi-residential building. FIG. 3 shows some notes regarding the energy conversion system shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 shows a somewhat schematic view of a building 14 including the energy conversion system 10 shown in FIG. 1. The energy conversion system 10 preferably includes a reservoir 16 for holding a thermal mass 18, a first loop array 20, a second loop array 22, a third loop array 24, and a parabolic solar collection apparatus 26. The parabolic solar collection apparatus 26 includes an absorber pipe 28 and a parabolic surface 30 wherein the absorber pipe 28 is oriented along an axis or location where solar rays from the sun are directed to after such rays are directed from the parabolic surface 30. The first loop array 20 includes first piping 32 for circulating a first heat transfer fluid to and from the reservoir 16 to and from the parabolic solar collection apparatus 26. The first heat transfer fluid may be any known heat transfer fluid at least suitable for temperatures in the range of about 32° F. to about 210° F. and may include, for example and without limitation, water, a mixture including water, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol. The circulation is preferably motivated by a first pump 34. Preferably, the first pump 34 causes some of the first heat transfer fluid to be directed from the reservoir 16, through a first pipe 32A, through the absorber pipe 28, through a second pipe 32B, and back into the reservoir 16 so that energy in the form of heat is transferred from the sun, through the absorber pipe 28, to the first heat transfer fluid, and ultimately to the thermal mass 18 of fluid located in the reservoir 16.

The second loop array 22 includes second piping 36 including a first heat exchange portion 38 located in the reservoir 16. The second loop array 22 is configured for circulating a second heat transfer fluid from the first heat exchange portion 38 to a first use application 40. The second heat transfer fluid may be the same composition as the first heat transfer fluid or may be some other heat transfer fluid including, for example and without limitation, water, a mixture including water, polyethylene glycol, ethylene glycol. The circulation of the second heat transfer fluid through the second loop array is preferably motivated by a second pump 41. Preferably, the second pump 41 causes some of the second heat transfer fluid to be directed from the first heat exchange portion 38, through a first pipe 36A, to the first use application 40, through a second pipe 36B, and back into the first heat exchange portion 38 so that energy in the form of heat is transferred from the sun, through the absorber pipe 28, to the first heat transfer fluid, to the thermal mass 18 of fluid located in the reservoir 16, through the first heat exchange portion 38, to the second heat transfer fluid, and to the first use application 40.

The first heat exchange portion 38 may be any type of fluid/fluid indirect heat exchange apparatus wherein two fluids flowing or located adjacent one another exchange heat. In one embodiment, the first heat exchange portion includes a radiator coil through which the second heat transfer fluid may flow. The first use application 40 may be any apparatus or system that would benefit from or otherwise require a heated heat transfer fluid. Preferably, the first use application includes an air treatment apparatus, most preferably an HVAC system. In one embodiment, the second loop array is configured so that the second heat transfer fluid flows directly through the first use application. In an alternative embodiment, the second heat transfer fluid in the second loop array exchanges heat with an intermediary heat transfer fluid and the intermediary transfer fluid flows directly through the first use application.

The third loop array 24 includes third piping 42 including a second heat exchange portion 44 located in the reservoir 16. The third loop array 24 is configured for circulating water from the second heat exchange portion 44 to a second use application 46. The circulation of the water through the third loop array 24 is preferably motivated by a third pump 43. Preferably, the third pump 43 causes some of the water to be directed from the second heat exchange portion 44, through a first pipe 42A, to the second use application 46, through a second pipe 42B, and back into the second heat exchange portion 44 so that energy in the form of heat is transferred from the sun, through the absorber pipe 28, to the first heat transfer fluid, to the thermal mass 18 of fluid located in the reservoir 16, through the second heat exchange portion 44, to the water flowing in the third loop array 24, and to the second use application 46.

The second heat exchange portion 44 may be any type of fluid/fluid indirect heat exchange apparatus wherein two fluids flowing adjacent one another exchange heat via conduction or other heat transfer mechanism through a barrier. In one embodiment, the second heat exchange portion includes a radiator coil through which the water may flow. The second use application 46 may be any apparatus or system that would benefit from or otherwise require heated water. Preferably, the second use application includes one or more water fixtures. The second use application 46 may include, for example and without limitation, sinks, baths, showers, floor heating units, wall heating units, heat radiators, and air treatment apparatuses. In situations in which the second use application 46 includes apparatuses that cause water to exit the third loop array 24, make-up water to replace the used water may be added via a make-up water line 45 (e.g., a municipal water line or other external water source). Any make-up water added to the third loop array is preferably inserted near or at the second heat exchange portion 44 so that such make-up water may be heated prior to circulation to the second use application 46. In embodiments in which a large volume of water is held in the third loop array 24, a bellows device 48 for holding an intermittent volume of hot water may be used to help maintain hot water availability as shown in FIG. 2.

The energy conversion system 10 is preferably buried below ground level 49 to take advantage of geothermal energy. The depth of the reservoir is preferably at least about 6 feet below the ground level 49. The energy conversion system 10 preferably further includes an access pipe 50 for adding or removing fluid or other material(s) as needed after a reservoir has been buried below the ground level 49. The thermal mass 18 in the reservoir 16 is preferably kept at a temperature ranging from at least about 120° F. to no more than about 200° F. More preferably, the temperature of the thermal mass ranges from about 140° F. to about 160° F. The reservoir is preferably sized to hold between about 250 gallons to about 1000 gallons of the first heat transfer fluid. However, there is no significant limitation how large the first reservoir 16 or any such reservoir could be. The size of the reservoir needed for a particular building structure would naturally depend heavily on the thermal envelope of such building structure. The size of a reservoir for a building including about twenty floors may have a footprint the size of about eight automobile parking spaces and a height of about six to about eight feet.

In a preferred embodiment, the energy conversion system 10 includes a first control system 52 for controlling the behavior of the solar collection apparatus 26. More specifically, for example, the first control system 52 preferably includes a motor 54 and a computer processor 56 for sending commands to the motor 54 to manipulate the position of the parabolic surface 30 relative to the position of the sun at a given time of day. This is often referred to generally as “tracking” the sun based on the known positioning of the sun and its direct rays relative to a particular position on the earth's surface. Any technology available to facilitate tracking using a parabolic solar collection apparatus is contemplated herein. The solar collection apparatus 26 described herein is preferably a parabolic trough solar collection apparatus but may additionally or alternatively include a parabolic dish solar collection apparatus.

In a related embodiment, the energy conversion system 10 includes a second control system which further includes a second computer processor 56B and a temperature sensor 60 located in or adjacent the thermal mass 18. Preferably, the second computer processor 56B includes command logic for directing a backup system to engage if the temperature of the thermal mass 18 falls outside of a desirable range. For example, if the temperature of the thermal mass 18, becomes too high, the second computer processor 56B, relying on data from the temperature sensor 60, may send an actuation command to one or more backup devices (e.g., opening a first valve for removing heated water from the third loop array and opening a second valve to add cooler make-up water to the third loop array). Similarly, for example, if the temperature of the thermal mass 18 becomes too low, the second computer processor 56B, relying on data from the temperature sensor 60, may send an actuation command to one or more backup devices (e.g., sending an activation signal to a backup electrical heating element to add supplemental heat to the thermal mass 18). The tasks of the first computer processor 56 and the second computer processor 56B may be accomplished by a single computer processor 56 using a single control system 52 as shown in FIG. 4. The first control system 52 may also include a solar sensor for determining whether enough solar energy is being received by the solar collection apparatus 30 during daytime hours. In such situations (e.g., rainy or overcast days), any energy draining components of the solar collection apparatus 26 (e.g., the motor 54 and/or first computer processor 56) could be turned off to minimize energy consumption.

There are benefits with providing a standard sized reservoir similar to the reservoir 16 shown in FIG. 4 for variously sized homes or other buildings. By creating a standard, reservoirs could be manufactured according to standard specifications before a particular building is even inspected. After a thermal demand for a particular building is determined, the number of standard reservoirs necessary to accommodate such a demand can conveniently be calculated. FIG. 5 shows an example of a box-like reservoir container for holding a thermal mass including a heat transfer fluid. The reservoir container 66 is preferably insulated and includes a plurality of apertures (e.g., threaded engagement ports) for attaching different loop arrays. The view in FIG. 5 is looking down at a top surface 68 of the container which includes a first aperture 70 and a second aperture 72 for attaching, for example, pipe 36A and pipe 36B, respectively, of the second loop array 22. The reservoir container 66 further includes a third aperture 74 and a fourth aperture 76 for attaching, for example, pipe 42A and pipe 42B, respectively, of the third loop array 24.

The reservoir container 66 also includes a fifth aperture 78 and a sixth aperture 80 for attaching, for example, pipe 32A and pipe 32B, respectively, of the first loop array 20. The reservoir container 66 further includes one or more attachment apertures 82 for attaching a plurality of reservoir containers 66 together in series as shown in FIG. 6. In a preferred embodiment, a first reservoir container attachment aperture may be directly attached to a second reservoir container attachment aperture. Alternatively, attachment pipes 84 may be used to attach reservoir containers in series to one another. The reservoir container 66 will preferably be sized to hold from about 250 gallons to about 1000 gallons of heat transfer fluid, and most preferably about 500 gallons of heat transfer fluid. Heat exchange portions of various system loops may be built into each reservoir container automatically or, alternatively, such heat exchange portions may be removable for reservoir containers in series that do not need to include such heat exchange portions (e.g., reservoir containers 86 and 88).

Embodiments of the invention described herein may be used for virtually any building or structure with some limited degree of insulation. Embodiments are most effective in the “transition zone” located throughout most of the United States of America. When an embodiment of the invention is used in a modern building, the water heating bill can be virtually eliminated. Moreover, for buildings using an air treatment apparatus (e.g., an HVAC system) with a SEER rating of about 14, the power required for such system can be decreased by about 30% to about 50% using an embodiment of the invention described herein. Thus, the system defined herein is economically feasible and pays for itself in a very short amount of time compared to other systems which take many years to pay for themselves.

The system described herein requires substantially no production of electricity and relies on the exchange of heat wherein the ultimate source comes from the sun. Use of parabolic solar collection apparatus (as opposed to other forms) enables the system to generate very high temperatures in the thermal mass—temperatures that can be kept for a number of days without sunlight. The larger the reservoir, the longer the high temperatures may be kept in the reservoir.

Another advantage of the system described herein is that it may easily be retrofitted to current buildings with very limited changes to the systems and/or piping already located in such buildings. Additionally, the materials and fluids used to make the embodiments of the system described herein are relatively cheap which allows a seller to obtain a high profit even when selling the system at relatively low prices compared to other “green” systems. This fact further supports the assertion above that embodiments of the system described herein pay for themselves quickly in the form of lowering electric power consumption bills.

A more specific example of an embodiment of an energy conversion system 100 is shown in FIG. 7. Preferably, the parabolic solar collection apparatus 26 includes the parabolic surface 30 having a surface area, for example, of from about 25 ft² to about 40 ft² and, for example, a length of from about 6 ft to about 10 ft. The solar collection apparatus 26 preferably further includes flexible tubing 102 at one or multiple sides of the parabolic surface 30, wherein such tubing is preferably rated at 240° F.—160 psig as well as an azimuth tracker 103 such as, for example, a Wattsun AZ125 Tracker™ brand azimuth tracker available from Array Technologies, Inc. of Albuquerque, N. Mex. The azimuth tracker 103 will preferably control the operation of the first pump 105 (i.e., act as the first controller 106), orient the parabolic surface 30 to a proper position, track the sun vertically and horizontally across the sky, and sense reduced solar radiation levels. In this embodiment, if the level of solar radiation is below a minimum set point, the solar collection apparatus 26 will be shut down by the azimuth tracker 103. Similarly, if the temperature of the thermal mass 18 is greater than the upper limit that has been set (e.g., 200° F.), the azimuth tracker will shut down the first pump 105 and/or the solar tracking functionality of the solar collection apparatus 26. If, for example, the temperature of the thermal mass 18 becomes equal to or less than the lower limit that has been set (e.g., 180° F.), the azimuth tracker will engage the first pump 105 and/or the solar tracking functionality of the solar collection apparatus 26 (assuming the solar radiation levels are at minimum or greater value).

If positioned in the ground, the solar collection apparatus 26 is preferably supported using a post member 104 (e.g., 4 in. diameter steel pipe post) wherein the solar collection apparatus 26 is positioned at a preferable height of at least about 10 ft above ground. An additional length (e.g., from about 2 ft. to about 5 ft.) of the post member 104 is positioned underground and preferably anchored within a concrete footer (e.g., 18 in.×48 in. concrete footer including #3×6 in. rebar cage). A first controller 106 is preferably attached adjacent the post member 104, although the exact location of the controller 106 may depend on the particular building type, geographical location, and/or immediate surroundings of such building. The first controller 106 is preferably in communication with a first pump 105 (e.g., an EBARA brand submersible pump for pumping from about 20 gallons per minute to about 30 gallons per minute available from Ebara Fluid Handling of Rock Hill, S.C.), the azimuth tracker 103 and any solar sensors associated therewith, and the temperature sensor 60 (e.g., a hi-low thermal sensor/switch programmed with a high temperature set point of 200° F. and a low temperature set point of 180° F.), thereby keeping track of the temperature of the thermal mass 18 in a reservoir 107 and controlling the movement of the first heat transfer fluid into and out of the reservoir 107. The first pump 105 (and other pumps disclosed herein) is preferably stored in a NEMA® brand type 4X control panel enclosure.

In an alternate embodiment, the solar collection apparatus 26 is attached adjacent the roof of a building, being supported by a modified post member 108 (e.g., 3 in. diameter steel pipe). A first end 110 of the modified post member 108 is attached to a roof mounting plate 113 (preferably, a 3 ft² plate and waterproof mounting). In this embodiment, the first controller 106 is preferably attached adjacent the building on which the solar collection apparatus 26 is mounted in, for example, a NEMA® brand type 4X control panel enclosure. Regardless of where the solar collection apparatus 26 is positioned or otherwise attached, the first pipe 32A and the second pipe 32B preferably include a copper insulated line having, for example, a diameter of from about 1 inch to about 1.5 inches.

The energy conversion system 100 is shown in FIG. 7 alongside a building 112 which has been retrofitted with the energy conversion system 100 and its various parts. Before the retrofit, the building included a water heater 114 attached to a water supply (e.g., domestic water supply or well supply line), a hot water supply line 116 for distribution throughout the building, a furnace 118 (e.g., 36,000 BTU/hr.) including, for example, a fan 120, and an air distribution duct assembly 122 for distributing air throughout the building 112. After the retrofit with the addition of the energy conversion system 100, a second loop 124 is added which selectively diverts incoming water supply to the reservoir 107 and back to a temperature control valve 127 along piping (e.g., 0.75 inch diameter copper insulated line). Preferably, for the example shown in FIG. 7, from about 75 ft. to about 125 ft. of the line is located within the reservoir 107.

Also, after the retrofit, a third loop 126 (preferably a closed loop) is added which interfaces with air blown through the furnace along a liquid/air heat exchanger 128, wherein a third heat transfer fluid can be pumped through the third loop 126 such that the third heat transfer fluid is reheated as heat is exchanged with the thermal mass 18 in the reservoir 107. In similar manner, the third heat transfer fluid cools when heat is exchanged between the third heat transfer fluid and air in the heat exchanger 128 located in or adjacent the furnace. Preferably, for the example shown in FIG. 7, from about 75 ft. to about 125 ft. of the line is located within the reservoir 107. The piping defining portions of the third loop 126 preferably includes, for example, 0.75 inch diameter to 1.25 inch diameter copper insulated pipe, wherein, preferably, from about 75 ft. to about 125 ft. of the line is located within the reservoir 107. Preferably, in this embodiment, a second controller 130 is preferably attached adjacent a second pump 132, both of which are attached adjacent or otherwise somewhere within the building on which the solar collection apparatus 26 is mounted in, for example, a NEMA® brand type 4× control panel enclosure. The second pump 132 moves the third heat transfer fluid throughout the third loop 126 substantially when it is engaged by one or more commands from the second controller 130. The second controller 130 is preferably in communication with the furnace thermostat switch 134 (or other temperature control apparatus associated with the furnace).

The reservoir 107 preferably includes an access pipe 136 and a manhole cover 138 (e.g., a 24 inch diameter manhole cover with insulation). The reservoir is preferably reinforced with a two to about six inch concrete layer 140 including an outer protective/insulating layer 142 (e.g., about two to about six inch thick polyurethane foam). The manhole cover 138 preferably provides a substantially water-tight seal when the manhole cover 138 is situated in a closed position, covering the associated manhole entrance of the access pipe 136.

FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of an energy conversion system 200 including a first loop 202 for transporting a first heat exchange liquid therethrough, a second loop 204 for transporting a second heat exchange liquid therethrough, and a third loop 206 for transporting a third heat exchange liquid therethrough. The first loop 202 includes a reservoir 208 which is substantially filled with a thermal mass 210 for storing thermal energy, a pressure gauge 212 located along a the first loop before first heat transfer fluid enters a parabolic solar collection apparatus 214 in a cycle, a vacuum breaker 216 located along the first loop 202 at a location where first heat transfer fluid passes through after passing through the solar collection apparatus 214, an outlet 218 where first heat transfer fluid is reintroduced into the reservoir 208, and a first pump 220 for pumping the first heat transfer fluid through the first loop 202. The solar collection apparatus 214 is preferably like the one described with respect to FIG. 7.

The second loop 204 includes a heat exchange coil 222 or other heat exchange apparatus located within the reservoir 208, a first pipe section 224 for directing the second heat transfer fluid (e.g., water, unless the heat exchange is indirect using a separate loop array, wherein the second heat transfer fluid can be fluids other than water) to a temperature control valve 226, the temperature control valve 226 attached adjacent a hot water tank 228 for selectively directing water into the hot water tank 228, and a second pipe section 230 for directing an external water source (e.g., domestic water source, well water source or other external water source) to the heat exchange coil 222. Preferably, the water pressure from the external water source drives the water throughout the second loop.

The third loop 206 includes a heat exchange coil 232 or other heat exchange apparatus located within the reservoir 208, a first pipe section 234 for directing the third heat transfer fluid to a shut off valve 236, a second pipe section 238 for directing the third heat transfer fluid to a second pump 240 wherein the second pump 240 is for pumping the third heat transfer fluid through the third loop 206, a third pipe section 242 for directing the third heat transfer fluid to an HVAC unit 244, and a fourth pipe section 246 for directing the third heat transfer fluid back to the heat exchange coil 232. FIG. 8 also shows an alternative use for the third heat transfer fluid including directing the third heat transfer fluid along a fourth loop 247—a sub-loop of the third loop 206 located beneath floor tile 207 or other flooring for heating such flooring.

The first loop 202 is controlled by a solar system pump controller 248 which is in communication with the first pump 220, the pressure gauge 212, and a temperature sensor 250 for measuring the temperature of the thermal mass 210. The third loop 206 is controlled by an HVAC pump controller 252 which is in communication with the shut off valve 236, the second pump 240, and, preferably, an HVAC thermostat switch and/or controller 254. Preferably, the temperature of the fourth loop is monitored using the thermostat switch 254 to insure the floors are not overheated or shut down the second pump 240 if the third heat transfer fluid is too cool to cause the floors to be heated. To this end, in this embodiment, the HVAC pump controller 252 essentially controls the fourth loop in addition to (or in the alternative to) the third loop 206. Preferably, the solar system pump controller 248 and the HVAC pump controller 252 are in communication with one another.

FIG. 9A shows a control diagram with respect to the HVAC pump controller 252 wherein the exemplary set point is shown as 90° F. FIG. 9B shows a control diagram for the solar system pump controller 248 wherein the lower limit for temperature of the thermal mass 18 is set at 180° F. and the upper limit for the thermal mass is set at 200° F.

FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of the energy conversion system 100 similar to that shown in FIG. 7. The energy conversion system 100 is shown alongside a building 112 which has been retrofitted with the energy conversion system 100 and its various parts, including a first loop 32 for transporting a first heat transfer fluid therethrough, a second loop 124 for transporting a second heat transfer therethrough, and a third loop 126 for transporting a third heat transfer fluid therethrough. Before the retrofit, the building included an air conditioning coil system 125, water heater 114 attached to a water supply 119 (e.g., domestic water supply or well supply line), a hot water supply line 116 for distribution throughout the building, a furnace 118 (e.g., 36,000 BTU/hr.), an air distribution duct assembly 122 connected to the air conditioning coil system 125 for distributing air throughout the building 112, and a return air duct assembly 124 for returning air to the air conditioning coil system 125. After the retrofit with the addition of the energy conversion system 100, the first loop 32 includes a reservoir 107 which is substantially filled with a thermal mass 18 for storing thermal energy, a pressure gauge 212 located along a the first loop supply 32A before first heat transfer fluid enters a parabolic solar collection apparatus 26 in a cycle, a vacuum breaker 216 located along the first loop 32 at a location where first heat transfer fluid passes through after passing through the solar collection apparatus 26, an outlet 218 located at the terminal end of the first loop return 32B where first heat transfer fluid is reintroduced into the reservoir 107, and a first pump 34 for pumping the first heat transfer fluid through the first loop supply 32. The first loop 32 is controlled by a solar system pump controller 248 which is in communication with the first pump 34 and the pressure gauge 212.

The solar collection apparatus 26 is preferably like the one described with respect to FIG. 7. The solar collection apparatus 26 is attached adjacent the roof of a building, being supported by a modified post member 108 (e.g., 3 in. diameter steel pipe). The solar collection apparatus 26 preferably further includes flexible tubing 102 at one or multiple sides of the parabolic surface 30, wherein such tubing is preferably rated at 240° F.-160 psig as well as an azimuth tracker 103 such as, for example, a Wattsun AZ125 Tracker™ brand azimuth tracker available from Array Technologies, Inc. of Albuquerque, N. Mex. The azimuth tracker 103 will preferably control the operation of the first pump 34, orient the parabolic surface 30 to a proper position, track the sun vertically and horizontally across the sky, and sense reduced solar radiation levels. Also, a second loop 124 is added which selectively diverts incoming water supply 119 to the reservoir 107 through a second loop supply 124A and back to a temperature control valve 127 through a second loop return 124B using an appropriate sized piping (e.g., 0.75 inch diameter copper insulated line). Because of the water supply 119, the second loop 124 is an open loop wherein the second heat transfer fluid (i.e., water) exits the second loop 124 at a point of use (e.g., a shower) and the lost heated water is replenished by the incoming water supply 119.

Also, after the retrofit, a third loop 126 (preferably a closed loop) is added which interfaces with air blown through the furnace 118 along a liquid/air heat exchanger 128, wherein a third heat transfer fluid can be pumped through the third loop 126 such that the third heat transfer fluid is reheated as heat is exchanged with the thermal mass 18 in the reservoir 107. In similar manner, the third heat transfer fluid cools when heat is exchanged between the third heat transfer fluid and air in the heat exchanger 128 located in or adjacent the furnace 118. The piping defining portions of the third loop 126 preferably includes, for example, 0.75 inch diameter to 1.25 inch diameter copper insulated pipe, wherein, preferably, from about 75 ft. to about 125 ft. of the line is located within the reservoir 107. Preferably, in this embodiment, a second controller 130 is preferably attached adjacent a second pump 132, both of which are attached adjacent or otherwise somewhere within the building on which the solar collection apparatus 26 is mounted in, for example, a NEMA® brand type 4× control panel enclosure. The second pump 132 moves the third heat transfer fluid throughout the third loop 126 substantially when it is engaged by one or more commands from the second controller 130. The second controller 130 is preferably in communication with the furnace thermostat switch 134 (or other temperature control apparatus associated with the furnace).

The energy conversion system 100 further includes a second control system which further includes a second computer processor 56B and a temperature sensor 60 located in or adjacent the thermal mass 18. Preferably, the second computer processor 56B includes command logic for directing a backup system to engage if the temperature of the thermal mass 18 falls outside of a desirable range. For example, if the temperature of the thermal mass 18, becomes too high, the second computer processor 56B, relying on data from the temperature sensor 60, may send an actuation command to one or more backup devices (e.g., opening a first valve for removing heated water from the third loop array and opening a second valve to add cooler make-up water to the third loop array). Similarly, for example, if the temperature of the thermal mass 18 becomes too low, the second computer processor 56B, relying on data from the temperature sensor 60, may send an actuation command to one or more backup devices (e.g., sending an activation signal to a backup electrical heating element to add supplemental heat to the thermal mass 18).

FIG. 11 shows an overhead view of the reservoir of FIG. 10 having a concrete layer 140 with an access pipe 136, manhole cover 138, and an outer protective/insulating layer 142.

FIG. 12 shows the reservoir of FIG. 10 in a somewhat schematic view seen from line “A-A” of FIG. 11. The reservoir 107 is shown buried under ground level 49 and preferably includes an access pipe 136 and a manhole cover 138 (e.g., a 24 inch diameter manhole cover with insulation). The reservoir is preferably reinforced with a two to about six inch concrete layer 140 including an outer protective/insulating layer 142 (e.g., about two to about six inch thick polyurethane foam). The manhole cover 138 preferably provides a substantially water-tight seal when the manhole cover 138 is situated in a closed position, covering the associated manhole entrance of the access pipe 136.

Also shown are the coiled portions of the second loop 124 and third loop 126 which are supported by coil supports 53 that extend the entire width of the reservoir 107. The ends of the coil supports are connected to the reservoir 107 using coil brackets 51, which are fastened to the inner wall of the reservoir.

FIG. 13 shows the reservoir of FIG. 10 in a somewhat schematic view seen from line “B-B” of FIG. 11. As shown, the reservoir further includes a pump sleeve 35 and a water meter box 37. The water meter box 37 is a closed structure placed immediately under the ground surface 49 and above the reservoir 107 which can be opened and accessed from above the ground surface and has an orifice in its bottom surface. The pump sleeve 35 is preferably made from 5″ chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (i.e. CPVC) pipe having at least one 4½″ aperture 39 cut into the bottom. The pump sleeve 35 houses the first pump 34 and the beginning portion of the first pipe 32A. The pump sleeve 35 is inserted through the bottom orifice of the water meter box 37, through the concrete layer 140 and the outer protective/insulating layer 142, and into the reservoir 107. The pump sleeve 35 extends all the way through the reservoir until it rests on the bottom of the reservoir. When the first pump 34 is operating, the thermal mass 18 is urged from the reservoir 107, through the apertures 39, and then into the first pipe 32.

FIG. 14 shows the reservoir of FIG. 10 in a somewhat schematic view seen from line “C-C” of FIG. 11. The reservoir further includes a return 47 located at the terminal end of the first loop return 32B where first heat transfer fluid is reintroduced into the reservoir 107.

The foregoing description of preferred embodiments of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The described preferred embodiments are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the scope of the disclosure to the precise form(s) disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments are chosen and described in an effort to provide the best illustrations of the principles of the disclosure and its practical application, and to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the concepts revealed in the disclosure in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the disclosure as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled. 

1. An energy conversion system comprising a first reservoir for holding a first heat transfer fluid wherein the fluid located in the first reservoir defines a thermal mass; a parabolic solar collection apparatus including an absorber pipe; a first loop array including first piping configured for circulating a first heat transfer fluid in a cyclical manner from the first reservoir through the absorber pipe and back to the first reservoir; a second loop array including second piping, the second piping including a first heat exchange portion located within the first reservoir wherein the first heat transfer fluid is substantially prevented from directly contacting fluid in the second loop array, the second loop array configured for circulating a second heat transfer fluid from the first heat exchange portion to a first use application and back to the first heat exchange portion; a third loop array including third piping, the third piping including a second heat exchange portion located within the first reservoir wherein the first heat transfer fluid is substantially prevented from directly contacting fluid in the third loop array, the third loop array configured for circulating water from the second heat exchange portion to a second use application and, to the extent water is not removed from the third loop array, back to the second heat exchange portion, wherein the energy conversion system is configured for transferring heat energy from the parabolic solar collection apparatus to the first heat transfer fluid, transferring heat energy from the first heat transfer fluid through the first heat exchange portion to the second heat transfer fluid in the second loop array, and transferring heat energy from the first heat transfer fluid through the second heat exchange portion to the water in the third loop array.
 2. The energy conversion system of claim 1 wherein the first use application further comprises an air treatment apparatus configured for receiving heat energy from the second heat transfer fluid as the second heat transfer fluid circulates through the second loop array.
 3. The energy conversion system of claim 1 wherein first heat transfer fluid and the second heat transfer fluid comprise substantially the same fluid composition.
 4. The energy conversion system of claim 1 further comprising a solar control system for controlling the mechanical behavior of the parabolic solar collection apparatus including the positioning of the solar collection apparatus relative to the sun, the first control system comprising a motor and a solar system controller, wherein the motor is actuated by one or more actuation commands from the solar system controller.
 5. The energy conversion system of claim 1 further comprising a first pump for pumping the first heat transfer fluid through the first loop array; and a second pump for pumping the second heat transfer fluid through the second loop array.
 6. The energy conversion system of claim 1 wherein the third loop array is in selective fluid communication with fluid from an external water source for supplying make up water to the third loop array.
 7. The energy conversion system of claim 1 wherein the first reservoir is configured to hold between about 250 gallons to about 1000 gallons of the first heat transfer fluid.
 8. The energy conversion system of claim 1 wherein the first heat transfer fluid is maintained at a temperature of at least about 120° F. and no more than about 200° F.
 9. The energy conversion system of claim 1 wherein the first heat transfer fluid is maintained at a temperature of at least about 180° F. and no more than about 200° F.
 10. The energy conversion system of claim 1 wherein the first reservoir is located at least about six feet below ground level to minimize heat energy loss.
 11. The energy conversion system of claim 1 comprising a parabolic solar collection apparatus selected from the group consisting of a parabolic trough solar collection apparatus and a parabolic dish solar collection apparatus.
 12. The energy conversion system of claim 1 wherein the first reservoir further comprises a concrete layer substantially surrounding the thermal mass, the concrete layer having an average thickness ranging from about two inches to about six inches; and a polymeric layer substantially surrounding the concrete layer, the polymeric layer having an average thickness ranging from about two inches to about six inches.
 13. The energy conversion system of claim 3 wherein the fluid composition comprises a heat transfer fluid selected from the group consisting of water, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, and one or more combinations thereof.
 14. The energy conversion apparatus of claim 4 further comprising a temperature sensor attached adjacent the first reservoir wherein the solar control system monitors and controls the temperature of the thermal mass within the first reservoir based at least in part on one or more commands from the solar system controller to the first pump.
 15. The energy conversion apparatus of claim 5 further comprising a first loop control system comprising a physical condition sensor attached adjacent the first loop array and a first loop controller in communication with the physical condition sensor and the first pump wherein the first loop control system is configured for transmission of one or more action commands from the first loop controller to the first pump in response to the detection of one or more pre-defined triggering conditions sensed by the physical condition sensor, the second control system for controlling the temperature of the thermal mass within the first reservoir.
 16. The energy conversion system of claim 6 wherein the third loop array further comprises a temperature control valve for selectively mixing water cycling through the third loop array and water introduced from the external water source.
 17. The energy conversion apparatus of claim 15 wherein the first loop control system further comprises command logic for directing a backup heating system to engage if the temperature of the thermal mass falls below a predefined temperature lower limit.
 18. The energy conversion apparatus of claim 15 further comprising a solar control system for controlling the mechanical behavior of the parabolic solar collection apparatus including the positioning of the solar collection apparatus relative to the sun, the first control system comprising a motor and a computer processor, wherein the motor is actuated by one or more actuation commands from the computer processor.
 19. The energy conversion apparatus of claim 18 further comprising a second loop control system for controlling the physical conditions associated with the first use application by controlling the flow of the second heat transfer fluid through the second loop array, the second loop control system comprising a second loop controller, the second pump, and a thermostat wherein the second loop control system is configured for transmission of one or more action commands from the second loop controller to the second pump in response to the detection of one or more pre-defined triggering conditions sensed by the thermostat.
 20. The energy conversion apparatus of claim 19 wherein the third loop array is in selective fluid communication with fluid from an external water source for supplying make up water to the third loop array and wherein the third loop array further comprises a temperature control valve for selectively mixing water cycling through the third loop array and water introduced from the external water source. 